FOUR AND HALF MONTHS BEFORE THE PROMISE OF 90 DAYS: Let us trace our history and note some events in chronological shape, taking place before fall of First ever PPP government on 5th of July 1977.
16th Feb:1977
Asghar Khan announces in an election meeting that this is the last year of PPP government irrespective of election results.
8th March 1977
PPP wins 154 seats out of 200 in National assembly election. PNA levels allegation of rigging and boycotts provincial elections.
10th March 1977
PNA starts agitation against PPP Government.
30th March 1977
Z.A.Bhutto calls on PNA leader Pir Pagaro to find a solution to the present crisis.
6th April 1977
Moulana Maududi proposes government - opposition talks in congenial atmosphere, without pre- conditions.
22nd April 1977
Government imposes martial law in Karachi, Lahore and Hyderabad.
27th April 1977
Armed forces totally united to back the present government,says an ISPR spokeman.
4th May 1977
Government charges Asghar Khan of subverting Armed Forces by writting OPEN LETTER to officers.
5th May 1977
PNA proposes a 32- point plan for the resolution of the crisis.
12th May 1977
Bhutto discusses the situation with PNA President Mufti Mahmood.
3rd June 1977
Political dialouge starts. Bhutto has Moulana Kausar Niazi and Hafiz Pirzado in his team. Asghar Khan not satisfied with the government gestures.
15th June 1977
Government - PNA understanding on basic issues: Election will be held this year, Bhutto government to continue.
16th June 1977
Final accord will be signed after my Middle East visit. says Bhutto.
18th June 1977
Bhutto leaves for Middle East visit.
28th June 1977
PNA President Mufti Mahmood meets Bhutto.
2nd July 1977
PPP and PNA teams meet and discuss their proposals night long. Bhutto agrees to hold elections in October and create an implementation committee with equal representation from PNA and PPP.
3rd July 1977
Accord reached, remains to be signed only, says Bhutto. Accord not approved by PNA Council, says Asghar Khan.
5th July 1977
Martial Law is proclaimed. General Zia assumes power. Bhutto arrested. Constitution partially suspended. Election to be held in ninety days.Political activities banned.
Zia becomes sixth President, the third to occupy the power by staging coup d'etat against a constitutionally established government. He remained in power from 5th July 1977 to 17th August 1988.Prof. Ghafoor Ahmed of Jamait-i-Islami writes in his book that WHEN DIALOGUES WERE ALMOST SUCCESSFUL ARMY TOOK OVER>
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